Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Overview

Haedong Yonggungsa is a dramatic Buddhist temple perched on a cliff directly above the crashing waves of the East Sea — one of the very few oceanside temples in Korea and Busan's most spectacular religious site.

Highlights

• Cliffside Location: The temple clings to rocks above the ocean, with spray from waves below.
• 108-Step Descent: A scenic staircase of 108 steps leads down the coastal cliff to the temple.
• Golden Buddha: A gilded seated Buddha statue facing the open sea.

History

Founded in 1376 by the monk Naong during the Goryeo dynasty, the temple was destroyed during the Japanese invasions and rebuilt in 1930. It's believed that prayers at this ocean temple are especially powerful.

Visitor Tips

• Sunrise: The temple is famous for sunrise views over the East Sea — arrive very early.
• Crowds: Extremely popular on weekends — visit on a weekday if possible.
• Duration: 1 hour.